U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky announced Tuesday that he will not seek re-election when his current term ends, marking the conclusion of a career spanning nearly four decades in the Senate.
McConnell, 82, made the announcement on the Senate floor, saying he decided last year that he would not run for an eighth term.
“I will not seek this honor an eighth time. My current term in the Senate will be my last,” McConnell said.
The longtime Republican leader reflected on his tenure, expressing gratitude to both his colleagues in the Senate and the people of Kentucky who elected him seven times.
“Every day in between, I’ve been humbled by the trust they’ve placed in me to do their business here. Representing our Commonwealth has been the honor of a lifetime,” he said.
McConnell was first elected to the Senate in 1984 and served as the Republican leader for nearly two decades, making him the longest-serving Senate leader in U.S. history. He led the party through multiple political battles, including Supreme Court confirmations and major legislative efforts.
Throughout his remarks, McConnell emphasized his belief in the Senate as an institution.
“The Senate is still equipped for work of great consequence… And, to the disappointment of my critics, I’m still here on the job,” he said.
McConnell also noted his dedication to strengthening the country’s judiciary, national security, and economy. He credited his work in securing resources for Kentucky farmers, modernizing the Brent Spence Bridge, and advocating for military strength.
“In our work, most of us in this body develop an appreciation for the Senate itself – its written rules, its collegial norms, even its pace of play,” he said. “Regardless of the political storms that may wash over this chamber during the time I have remaining, I assure our colleagues that I will depart with great hope for the endurance of the Senate as an institution.”
McConnell did not specify his plans for after he leaves office but made it clear that he intends to remain active until his term concludes.
“I have some unfinished business to attend to,” he said.
